Pith helmets, otherwise known as "safari helmets" or topees, were worn primarily in the 18th and 19th centuries by European explorers. Later, they were issued to British military officers who were stationed in Africa and India.

As such, they’re widely considered to be a symbol of colonialism and oppression.

Many have been quick to condemn the seemingly tone-deaf choice.

The first lady wearing a pith helmet. (AAP)

"That Pith helmet you have carried was used by colonialists during the dark days. Doesn't sit well with us Africans. Who advised you?" wrote Twitter user Pauleen Mwalo.

Kim Yi Dionne, who started the hashtag #FLOTUSinAfricaBingo' to document clichés on the first lady's trip, wrote, "I didn’t actually want this to happen and I really didn’t think it would. Like WTAF?"

As Jenni Avins pointed out for Quartz, Mrs Trump was a model during the late-80s/early-90s "safari craze" – a time where fashion retailers like Ralph Lauren and Banana Republic promoted a romanticised ideal of white people going to Africa and wearing khaki.

Her fashion choice is likely a carry-on of this outdated understanding of the continent.

Mrs Trump visited Kenya as part of her first solo trip. (AAP)

The White House is yet to comment on the helmet controversy. However, the first lady did make a statement in regard to her time visiting Kenya.

"The hospitality that I received made the experience so special. I was awed by the beauty of Nairobi National Park and was very interested to learn more about Kenya’s conservation efforts… I look forward to visiting again in the future."